An Arctic Odyssey to see the 2026 Solar Eclipse

Day 1

Arrival in Longyearbyen, Svalbard

Welcome to Longyearbyen, the administrative centre of Svalbard and the starting point of your Arctic expedition! At Longyearbyen Airport, you will be greeted by the expedition operator's team and transferred to a quality hotel in Longyearbyen, which is included in the cruise package price. The hotel will be advised closer to the date. You will be free to explore the charming, walkable town centre, for the rest of the day.

We suggest starting your discovery of this fascinating Norwegian High Arctic territory at the excellent Svalbard Museum, where you can also purchase hard-to-find polar books and maps. Afterwards, sample one of Longyearbyen’s delightful restaurants. If you are still awake at midnight, you will notice the sun has not set—and it will not set for the entire duration of your time in Svalbard!

Day 2

Welcome Aboard!

After breakfast, the morning is at leisure to enjoy Longyearbyen further. Take the views of icy fjords and glaciated mountains surrounding this historic former coal-mining town. Perhaps shop for souvenirs or some last-minute necessities such as cold-weather gear. Remember, you will soon receive your parka to keep and waterproof boots to borrow on board the ship. For lunch, Longyearbyen offers quick and easy meal options, including the most northerly pizzas and kebabs in the world.

You will be transferred to the pier in the afternoon to board the deluxe expedition vessel M/V Sea Spirit. Settle into your spacious suite and explore the ship that will be your home during this extraordinary adventure. After getting underway, a full schedule of events kicks off with informative briefings and introductions from your expedition staff. After the first of many tasty dinners on board, step out onto the open decks to admire the gorgeous scenery in 24-hour daylight as you pass through the wildlife-rich waters of Isfjorden.

Day 3

Exploration Of Svalbard

Svalbard is a true High Arctic wilderness, making this voyage a real expedition. The route depends on weather and sea ice conditions, with the captain and expedition leader adjusting plans as needed. Rest assured, we'll make the most of the opportunities presented by Nature in this remote Arctic region.

They plan to explore northwestern Spitsbergen, known for its stunning scenery and excellent wildlife viewing. This area features deep fjords, snowy peaks, tidewater glaciers, and fields of flowering tundra with reindeer and Arctic foxes. The waters are rich with marine mammals, and Polar Bears can be seen throughout Svalbard.

Ny Ålesund, once a mining town, now hosts an international Arctic research community with a museum, gift shop, and post office. It also served as a staging area for historic North Pole expeditions.

Day 4

Across the Greenland Sea

From Svalbard, the ship will head southwest across the Greenland Sea toward East Greenland over around 2 days.

In these far northern latitudes, it is possible to encounter sea ice any time of the year. All along the way the captain, crew and expedition team remain vigilant for sightings of marine mammals such as whales and seals.

Day 5

Exploration of East Greenland

This authentic expedition cruise in East Greenland depends on weather and sea ice. The captain and expedition leader will maximize wildlife viewing, scenery, and shore visits. The ship will navigate the world's largest national park, including the Franz Josef and Kong Oscar Fjords, and explore Scoresby Sund, the planet's largest fjord system.

These ice-bound regions showcase the Arctic's most breathtaking landscapes, emphasizing the natural splendour and the significant influence of climate and geography. Beyond the scenic vistas, our expedition explores the Arctic's rich cultural heritage, from ancient Thule sites to the contemporary Inuit village of Ittoqqortoormiit.

Day 6

Solar Eclipse!

This trip isn't just about seeing beautiful places; it's also about experiencing a rare celestial event—a total solar eclipse. It will happen on 12 August 2026 and will pass over the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, the Atlantic Ocean, and northern Spain.

Your ship, Sea Spirit, will anchor in the best location in the waters of Greenland to ensure you enjoy this moment to the fullest. The journey is further enriched by special guest, astrophysicist Paul Sutter. Known for his ability to make complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging, Paul will enhance your eclipse experience with expert insights, making the moment of totality on August 12, 2026, even more unforgettable.

Day 7

Cross the Denmark Strait to Iceland

After an amazing few days in East Greenland, Sea Spirit will cross the Denmark Strait towards Iceland, crossing the Arctic Circle on the way.

Presentations and workshops by the expert team on board, as well as a range of onboard recreation facilities, ensure that this day at sea is not idly spent.

Seabird viewing and whale sightings can be enjoyed from panoramic open decks as well as exterior stateroom windows and balconies.

Day 8

Explore Westfjords in Iceland

The last expedition day of your cruise is spent in the beautiful Vestfirðir (Westfjords) of Iceland.

This remote and sparsely populated region of crenulated coastlines, voluminous waterfalls and rugged mountains sees only 10% of Iceland’s visitors. Deep fjords are home to whales while estuaries abound with seals and birdlife.

Day 9

Disembark Sea Spirit in Reykjavik

After breakfast, say farewell in Reykjavík, the capital of Iceland and the ending point of our expedition. The operator includes a transfer to the airport or the city centre if you wish to spend another day or more exploring Iceland before flying home.

Reykjavík is home to a wealth of cultural institutions such as museums, galleries, and the Hallgrímskirkja church. Leisure possibilities inside the city include parks, gardens, and thermal baths. You can also take advantage of Reykjavík’s wide range of shopping possibilities, excellent dining options, and nightlife. And of course, the entire country of Iceland is accessible through day excursions or longer journeys by rental car/with a driver guide. The options for additional adventures are endless!